Cell Biology: Know What You Are Made Of

Every organism is or at some time was a single cell. Cells vary widely, from bacteria, to yeast, to neurons, to skin and bone. Changes in cells underlie most human diseases and aging. Although crucial to our function and health, most of their secrets remain unknown. How do cells vary so widely? Why are germ cells immortal, whereas others die? How can a cell be both an organism and part of the 37 trillion of a human? How do a cells 10 billion proteins organize and interact? How do cells survive in deep sea vents? How do cells talk to each other, move, and divide? How are all cells connected to Earth's first cell 3.5 billion years ago? In BIOLOGY 220 we explore key findings, principles and techniques that address these and other questions that move us toward understanding the story of life. Recommended prerequisite: BIOLOGY 201L